**US Diplomats Condemn Georgian Government’s Violence**
Seventeen former American diplomats and experts have spoken out against the violence used by the Georgian government against peaceful protesters in Tbilisi. They strongly condemned the actions of the government, led by Bidzina Ivanishvili and Irakli Kobakhidze.
Georgia has been seen as a beacon of freedom and reforms. However, after being granted candidate status to join the European Union last year, the current government has taken steps in the wrong direction. The former US officials point out that this decision was praised by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
**Critical Moment for Georgia**
This is a critical moment in Georgia’s history, with implications for the entire South Caucasus region and beyond. The former diplomats believe that now is the time for America to act.
**US Should Take Action**
The former US officials are calling on the USA to take several steps:
* Refuse to recognize the results of last month’s parliamentary elections due to concerns over their legitimacy.
* Refuse to recognize the new parliament and government formed by “Georgian Dream“.
* Support President Salome Zurabishvili in holding new, free and fair elections under a new Central Election Commission.
They also call on Georgia’s armed forces and security services to uphold the country’s Constitution and refuse orders that go against it, such as repression against peaceful protesters.
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